Use Third Party Escrow

I haven't been ripped-off yet. Still, for those high dollar items you may want to use a third-party escrow service that e-bay can link you to just in case. That way, once the auction closes you send your money to the third party, who in turn sends the money to the seller once you verify that you received the purchased goods. They charge a small fee, about $5.00, but it is good insurance if you are in doubt. If the seller refuses to use a third party escrow service that might send up a red flag. Beware!